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Background
Recent studies show that more than 60% of Americans are feeling lonely. Recognizing that loneliness can lead to a 26% increased risk of premature all-cause mortality, countries around the world have begun to address the loneliness public health crisis. Loneliness is a subjective experience resulting from the feeling of social disconnectedness and differs from isolation which is a lack of social connection.
Various studies have determined that loneliness is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, addiction, and suicide, as well as heart disease and dementia, among others. Further, research indicates that those who are lonely and/or socially isolated are less productive at work and have higher rates of workplace absenteeism. These combined costs on our society are immeasurable.
In response, CT nonprofit For All Ages is forming this statewide Collaborative comprised of private and public entities that recognize the importance of, and need for, addressing loneliness among residents of all ages across Connecticut.
Collaborative members are aligning their expertise, experience, and resources to achieve tangible progress toward eliminating loneliness experienced by CT residents of all ages.
Overarching goals
1. Raise awareness of the problem
Raise awareness of the negative mental and physical health impacts of loneliness and highlight its detrimental impact and costs to society.
2. Engage healthcare professionals
Engage healthcare professionals to work collaboratively to make loneliness a standard component of annual physical examinations for people of all ages and to develop standard protocols and referral solutions.
3. Eliminate the stigma
Undertake a statewide publicity campaign to eliminate the stigma of loneliness among the general population and encourage citizens of all ages to talk about loneliness and engage socially.
4. Address young adult loneliness
Create opportunities for dialogue around the loneliness epidemic at the high school and college levels. Develop and deliver a loneliness education program to high schools throughout the state, develop a taskforce of mental health professionals across CT universities, and facilitate the establishment of intergenerational programs involving students and residents of neighboring towns.
5. Address older adult loneliness
Address older adult loneliness by engaging aging professionals and town leaders in conversations about loneliness via a series of information sessions and facilitating the development of local programmatic solutions for social connection.